The Gateway for Migratory Birds & the Magic of Wetlands in North Sinai

📍 Location & Area
Zaranik Protected Area is located in the eastern part of Lake Bardawil, approximately 25 km west of Arish city in North Sinai Governorate.

It was declared a natural reserve under Prime Ministerial Decree No. 1429 of 1985 and covers an area of 250 square kilometers, of which 68% is water bodies and 32% sand dunes.

🌿 Biodiversity & Ecosystems
Zaranik is one of the world’s most important stopovers for migratory birds, with over 270 recorded bird species, including:

Great White Pelican

Greater Flamingo

Heron

Cattle Egret

Stork

Falcon

Quail

Hoopoe

Turtle Dove

The reserve also hosts mammals such as the red fox, wildcat, and striped hyena, along with diverse reptiles and insects.

🏞️ Natural Habitats
The reserve features a rich variety of ecosystems, including:

Saltwater lakes

Mudflats (sabkhas)

Sand dunes

Sandy islands

Coastal plains

Among its most notable islands is Al-Falusiyat Island, renowned for its unique flora and fauna.

🧭 Ecotourism & Activities
Zaranik is a prime destination for nature and bird enthusiasts, offering visitors the chance to enjoy:

Birdwatching (especially migratory species)

Nature photography

Eco-tours and educational trips

Scenic landscapes

🌍 Ecological & International Significance
Zaranik holds global importance, being listed under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands and recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International.

⚠️ Challenges & Conservation Efforts
Despite ongoing protection efforts, the reserve faces threats such as:

Climate change

Unregulated human activities

Overhunting